Daily PresenceSample

When I build IKEA furniture, I inevitably build it twice. The first time I pull all the pieces out of the box and start connecting things together in hopes that it will all “work out.” By the time I’m halfway through, I can tell something is wrong….. so I pull it apart again and start over. Usually while muttering some “Christian explicative” under my breath. The second time, I frustratedly opened the instruction packet and gave it a good read first. To my chagrin, the directions tell me exactly what to do. I know, shocker :) If you actually read the directions on your first try, congratulations, your character is stronger than mine.

Generally speaking, we all need to be humbled before we’re willing to seek wisdom, especially in our relationship with God. We think we know what's best for our lives, we think we know what we’re doing, and even when we’re not so sure, we’re told to “listen to our heart” or “do what makes us happy.” This way of thinking just leaves us on the floor in a pile of particle boards! When I build IKEA, I need directions from the people who created the furniture just like I need wisdom from the God who created me when I’m living my life! His wisdom is far beyond my own understanding, yet I forget to consult Him as I try to fit the pieces of my life together.

Solomon had everything going for him. He could have let pride lead him astray but he knew God was still much bigger than himself. He knew the creator and chose to seek wisdom instead of trusting in his own strength. This simple choice to humble himself before the all-knowing God, led him to blessings beyond what we can fathom. When I recognize God is the creator of my life, suddenly I realize He has all the answers! In His word and in His indwelling spirit in me, I hold the instruction manual in my hands. Now it’s just up to me to use it.